AUCTION CAR:

A beautifully restored 1972 Holden HQ SS Sedan — a genuine matching-numbers example presented in fantastic condition throughout. This Australian muscle icon is finished in its correct and factory original ‘Lettuce Alone’ (paint code 15446) with a contrasting Black and Houndstooth cloth-trimmed interior, just as it left the factory in 1972. Originally produced as a special sports sedan limited to a short production run, the HQ SS was Holden’s first badge-engineered SS model and remains highly collectible today. This example has been the subject of an excellent restoration, returning it to near factory specification and appearance, with all components refinished or refurbished to high standard. Importantly, all ID tags, chassis stampings, and engine casting date codes are confirmed to be correct and matching, making this one of the finest surviving examples of this increasingly sought-after model.

 

DRIVE-LINE:

This SS retains its original, numbers-matching 4.2-litre 253ci Holden V8 engine, confirmed by casting date 8/72 and engine number, paired to the factory M20 four-speed manual gearbox and 3.36:1 Salisbury limited-slip differential — the correct driveline specification for HQ SS models. The engine has been fully rebuilt and recently serviced, delivering strong performance and smooth, reliable operation. All ancillary systems including the cooling, fuel, ignition and exhaust have been refurbished or replaced with period-correct components, and the vehicle runs cleanly with excellent throttle response and no known mechanical faults. Underneath, all suspension and steering components have been reconditioned or renewed, including shock absorbers, bushings, and brakes, making this a turn-key drivers example, ready for enjoyment or show.

 

EXTERIOR:

The body of this HQ SS presents in stunning order, finished in its eye-catching and correctly coded 'Lettuce Alone' green, a colour unique to the SS in 1972. The paintwork gleams with a deep gloss, reflecting the high quality of the bodywork restoration and finish. Panel alignment is excellent with tight gaps and no signs of prior damage or rust repair. The original SS-specific stripes, badges and blacked-out grille have been applied correctly. This example rides on its factory 14-inch GTS steel wheels with chrome trim rings and SS centre caps — the correct fitment for HQ SS models. Brightwork, badges, lenses and glass are all in excellent condition, down to the correct dual exhaust tips.

 

INTERIOR:

Inside, the cabin has been fully restored to factory-correct specification, featuring its rare and desirable Black vinyl with Houndstooth cloth seat inserts (Trim Code 10C)— a trim combination unique to the HQ SS and now difficult to source. The seats, door trims, headlining, and loop pile carpet have all been professionally retrimmed and present as near new. The factory sports dash, SS three-spoke steering wheel, and Hurst-style shifter are all present and correct. Instrumentation, including the 120mph speedometer and 6000rpm tacho, is clean and functional, with all electrical systems, interior lighting, and controls operating properly. Period-correct new seat belts, pedal rubbers and SS badging complete the interior’s factory-authentic appearance.

 

SUMMARY:

This 1972 Holden HQ SS Sedan is an exceptional example of Holden’s first SS-badged performance sedan, restored to a near factory-correct standard and presented in one of the most iconic Australian colour combinations of the 70's. With its matching-numbers driveline, original ID tags and correct stamping throughout, it stands as a great car for collectors seeking a genuine HQ SS. The ‘Lettuce Alone’ paint and Houndstooth interior make it a standout visually, while its faultless mechanical condition ensures it’s equally at home on the road or the show field.

This is a good opportunity to secure one of the coolest Aussie V8 Sedans that you can pull up to a BBQ in. 

 

 

Available at Upcoming - AUGUST 28th AUCTION.